Gas price rise is another fuel poverty bodyblow

Alliance Social Development Spokesperson Judith Cochrane MLA has said the announcement by Firmus Energy that it is to raise its prices by more than a third in the greater Belfast area from 1 October is another bodyblow as regards fuel poverty following other announcements on energy prices.

Judith Cochrane MLA said: “This news is yet another bodyblow to households. The problem of fuel poverty is being exacerbated with every announcement of this nature.

“This news makes it all the more vital that winter fuel payments are protected. People should never have to face the question of whether to heat or eat.

“Tackling fuel poverty is one of the biggest challenges facing politicians and we must meet this challenge head on.

“It is crucial that we work to provide further access to insulation schemes to help households keep bills as low as possible. It is also vital that we work to create more energy through renewable sources. Green energy and a Green New Deal are crucial to addressing fuel poverty.”

ENDS